TRIBUTES have been made to an “inspirational” woman who was instrumental in helping to found a children’s hospice.

Lady Sarah Clutton died in her sleep at her home on the Angmering Estate at the weekend.

Lady Sarah became honorary president of St Barnabas House Hospice in Worthing in 1996 following the death of her mother Lavinia, Duchess of Norfolk.

When St Barnabas House announced plans to open a children’s hospice, Lady Sarah donated land from the estate, based near Arundel, for it to be built on.

At the time, she gave the hospice a 125 year lease with a rent of one dozen mixed lilies and a new £1 coin on her birthday each year.

The hospice, which cares for children across Sussex, officially opened in November 2003.

More recently Lady Sarah gave an additional piece of land to create a special woodland walk for children and families using the hospice.

A statement on behalf of the two hospices said Lady Sarah would be remembered by many for her “thoughtfulness, sense of humour and personal generosity”.

She was a regular and popular customer at the Chestnut Tree House shop in Arundel and frequently gave items to be sold.

Lady Sarah, who was 74, was also a great ambassador for the charity, was constantly encouraging others to support the hospices as well as being an unstinting supporter herself.

The statement said: “Sarah will be very much missed by staff and volunteers at both hospices.

“The children and families at Chestnut Tree House will also miss Lady Sarah as a trip up the lane will be incomplete without her.

“Our thoughts are with Lady Sarah’s family at this very sad time.

Hospice chief executive Hugh Lowson said: “Lady Sarah took a very personal interest in our services and development.

“She knew a large number of our families, staff and volunteers and she was a personal friend to many and behind the scenes a driving force to so much that has happened at Chestnut Tree House and St Barnabas House over the years.

“Lady Sarah was an inspiration, full of energy, totally dedicated to both hospices and was much loved by all.”

Bishop Richard Moth, Bishop of Arundel & Brighton said: "Although new to the Diocese I am well aware of the tremendous love and esteem in which Lady Sarah was held. The Diocese owes her a huge debt of gratitude for her witness to the Gospel, notably in her wonderful work for the Lourdes Pilgrimage.”

Lady Sarah was the daughter the 16th Duke of Norfolk and married to Nigel Clutton.

Details of a public memorial service will be announced at a future date.